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The issue of private exotic animal ownership is a controversial one, according to San Diego-based Lions Tigers & Bears, which removed the bears this summer.

One of the owners surrendered his bear because he wanted to downsize due to his age and health, the group said. Another had purchased a black bear as a family pet, but the animal grew too large to play with.

“Private exotic animal owners are proactively surrendering their animals before the new law goes into effect in Ohio on Jan. 1, 2014,” the LTB news release said.

“There are many more exotic animals living in poor conditions due to their owners being unable to properly care for them. These animals will need to be relinquished before the new law goes into effect if the owner is unable to provide proper accommodations and care for the animals,” the news release said.

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation received help last year when Bob Barker, former host of “The Price is Right,” donated $250,000 in support of the organization's work.

The group rescues more than 6,000 animals each year and provides sanctuary to more than 600 native and non-native animals unable to be released back to the wild.